[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 197 (Friday, November 12, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1226]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF GEORGE LaBLONDE

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JACK BERGMAN

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, November 12, 2021

  Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize the life of 
George LaBlonde, who passed away recently after a lifetime of service. 
Through his extreme dedication to the public good, George became an 
indispensable part of the Upper Peninsula, the State of Michigan, and 
the United States of America.
  A native Yooper, George was born in Ironwood, Michigan, on October 
17, 1938. He was raised in Ironwood and graduated from Luther L. Wright 
High School in 1956. With a deep-rooted drive to serve others, George 
furthered his education at the Michigan College of Mining and 
Technology in 1960 while also earning a commission as a Second 
Lieutenant with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. He went on to attend 
several other prestigious institutions including Purdue University, the 
U.S. Army War College, the Department of Defense Language Institute, 
the Army Command and General Staff College, and completed numerous 
other specialized courses. In addition to his impressive and 
comprehensive military education, George's 30 years of service earned 
him several honors and decorations including the Legion of Merit Medal, 
the Bronze Star Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Air Medal, 
the Joint Service Commendation Medal, the Army Commendation Medal with 
``V'' device, the Parachute Badge, amongst many others. As a retired 
Marine myself, I greatly appreciate the longtime devotion George gave 
to our Nation.
  George passed away on October 29, 2021. His steadfast care and 
friendly nature towards all members of his community will surely leave 
a lasting mark on those who had the opportunity to know him. He is 
missed dearly by his family and friends, and his legacy will 
undoubtedly live on for generations to come. George's tireless 
dedication to public service touched the lives of countless 
Michiganders, and the impact of his work cannot be overstated.
  Madam Speaker, on behalf of Michigan's First Congressional District, 
I ask you to join me in honoring the life of George LaBlonde. His 
legacy will forever live on in his family and in the many lives he 
bettered through his service.

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